The Poppy sur Ovillers-La-Boisselle

05/05/2024: Finally writing a review of my fabulous Battlefields tour with Jon last year! I’m so pleased I chose Jon from Old Blighty Battlefield tours (who also runs the tea rooms with his wife) to research and guide me on my very moving, personalized tour of the Somme area (including Pozieres & Bullecourt ) where my Australian grandfather fought in World War I (in the 22nd battalion and related Pioneers.) Jon tailored the tour to my needs but was also very flexible about where we went. (This was particularly important as I unfortunately only had one full day. I wish I could have spent at least two days seeing the area.) While I’d seen some of my grandfather’s army records beforehand, Jon researched his and his battalion’s movements thoroughly. It was very moving to often stand either on or close to, as well as see the very places where my grandfather would have stood, fought, dug trenches, camped etc, and to visit other sites such as the John Monash centre and towns where these men might have visited /stayed in when not in battle. With his deep knowledge of the history and local geography, Jon clearly explained what happened in various locations and the context, logistics etc. I highly recommend Jon as a highly informative, articulate guide and delightful person. I felt very comfortable doing a solo tour with him.